Middle School

Middle School Curriculum Guide (6th – 8th)

Reading: Rigorous and challenging literary materials and informational texts are utilized at the middle school level. A purposeful literary program ensures strength in inferential comprehension as well as literary analysis. The goal is for all rising 9th graders to be ready to succeed in high school.

Writing: Middle school writing experiences provide for more sophistication as abstract study of mood, tone, and style are analyzed. More rigorous grammar and usage study is incorporated through intense reading and writing lessons.

Math: Middle school math curriculum focuses on actively engaging the students in the development of mathematical understanding by using manipulatives and a variety of representations, working independently and cooperatively to solve problems, estimating and computing efficiently, and conducting investigations and recording findings. There is a shift towards applying mathematical concepts and skills in the context of authentic problems and for the student to understand concepts rather than merely to follow a sequence of procedures.

Social Studies: The middle school social studies curriculum includes a unit focus with connecting themes, including global studies and Georgia studies with a hands-on approach coupled with student learning projects, class presentations, research, application, and current events

Science: The middle school science curriculum emphasizeshands-on, student-centered, and inquiry-based approaches.Science instruction is supported through field trips and the development and participation in a science fair project.

STEM: The integration of STEM activities allows students to participate in project-based instruction with a particular emphasis on applied math, science, engineering, and technology.

Leadership and Service: The middle school is where students learn to further recognize the value of applying their talents and knowledge for the good of the community and society. Students participate in community service projects, volunteering, peer tutoring, student government, and athletics.

The Library Media Program provides materials for all reading levels and is an extension of the classroom providing students with instruction and access to print and digital resources for learning and leisure reading. Computers are available for classroom curriculum support.

A Christian curriculum Bible study class includes literature from both the Old and New Testaments and provides learning opportunities through character education, memory verses, and application of scripture in everyday life.

Music: The middle school music offerings include vocal performances and general music classes where students have opportunities to participate in chorus and other competitions (hand bells, guitar, Honor Chorus, and GICAA literary and acting competitions).

Art: The middle school artprogram focuses on giving students a way to express themselves as an individual through painting, sculpting, drawing, photography, and sketching. Students can enter their artwork in annual art shows and can participate in the Mountain Color and Square One Art projects.

Field trips support the academic curriculum on a regular basis according to grade level standards. RSCA’s 8th graders travel to Washington, D.C., and middle school members of the choral group visit Walt Disney World where they participate in live performances.

Academic counseling ensures that every student is known, understood, and proactively guided.